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Post 95 - It’s the weekend, Idiom of the Day
Butterflies in the stomach

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Figurative meaning

The phrase "butterflies in the stomach" describes the nervous, fluttery feeling one might experience in anticipation of something significant or stressful, like speaking in public, attending an interview, or meeting someone special for the first time.

Typical usage

This idiom is commonly used to express anxiety or excitement about upcoming events in a somewhat lighthearted manner. For example, someone might say, "I have butterflies in my stomach before every stage performance," to convey their nervous excitement.

Origin

The idiom "butterflies in the stomach" is believed to originate from the physical sensation that resembles the fluttering of soft, light wings against the stomach walls. This sensation is actually caused by a reduction of blood flow to the stomach that occurs during moments of anxiety or nervousness, which in turn is part of the body's preparation for a 'fight or flight' response. The phrase itself is relatively modern, with its usage in English traced back to the early 20th century.